Rafael Palacios Godello Louro 2015

From the rugged terrain of the Valdeorras Appellation in the far reaches of Northwest Spain comes Rafael Palacios, a producer specializing in the Godello grape variety. Higher elevations and the mixture of sand, granite and quartz soil is what gives Rafael's wines their unique flavor and texture.

Hand harvested from his practicing organic vineyards, and gently pressed using pneumatic presses combined with natural yeasts, then aged in 3,000 Liter foudre (large used casks) and 500 Liter French Oak Barrels, Rafael's skill and knowledge of the Godello grape, the primary grape he works with, brings this wine to a level of richness, balance and complexity it rarely sees elsewhere.

Upon opening, you immediately get a bright citrus aroma. Swirling the wine releases those same citrus notes along with rich minerality. When drunk, you are engaged with the bright acidity and a certain creaminess along with pear and peach notes. The minerality persists throughout the long finish. Similar to fine Sancerres, this wine would pair well with seafood, shellfish and even roasted vegetables.

Selling around $20 to $25, and coming from older root-stock, this is a wine that can be enjoyed for a couple of years. This wine was recently released, so it should still be available. If your local shop doesn't have it in stock, let them know that it is available in Illinois through Maverick Wine Company.